Brazo de Mercedes Recipe

Brazo de Mercedes Recipe

Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips & Notes

Brazo de Mercedes is a classic Filipino dessert featuring a light meringue roll filled with rich custard (yema). Named after “Our Lady of Mercy,” this delicate dessert contrasts airy meringue with creamy egg yolk filling, often dusted with powdered sugar.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the meringue:

• 10 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the custard filling:

• 10 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp butter

For garnish:

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15x10-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the meringue:
   • Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add sugar while beating until stiff peaks form. Fold in vanilla.
   • Spread evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
3. Prepare the custard:
   • Whisk yolks, sugar, milk, and vanilla in a double boiler. Cook over simmering water, stirring constantly, until thickened (15-20 minutes). Remove from heat; stir in butter.
4. Assemble the roll:
   • Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Invert the baked meringue onto it, then peel off parchment.
   • Spread custard evenly over the meringue. Roll tightly using the towel as a guide. Chill for 30 minutes.
5. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before slicing.

Tips & Notes

• Room-temperature eggs separate more easily.
• Avoid overbaking the meringue to prevent cracking when rolling.
• Variations: Add ube (purple yam) extract or pandan flavoring to the custard.

FAQ

What’s the origin of Brazo de Mercedes?

It dates to the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines, named after “Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes” (Our Lady of Mercy). The recipe likely repurposed leftover egg yolks from construction mortar.

Can I make Brazo de Mercedes ahead of time?

Yes! Store refrigerated for up to 3 days. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Why did my meringue crack?

Overbaking or insufficient moisture can cause cracks. Cover with a damp towel while cooling to improve flexibility.

Related guides

• Banana Cue: Filipino Caramelized Fried Bananas
• Bibingka (Filipino Coconut Rice Cake)
• Bibingkang Malagkit (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)
• Filipino Biko Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Sticky Rice Cake

Sources

• Brazo de Mercedes - Wikipedia
• Brazo de Mercedes Dessert